SANTA ROSA, Calif. — In a powerful show of solidarity, veterans gathered outside the Veteran’s Administration Clinic in Santa Rosa on Friday, voicing their concerns over proposed cuts to VA health care services by the Trump administration. With signs in hand and a strong sense of purpose, they united in their fight to protect vital health care benefits that millions of veterans depend on.
The rally was sparked by fears that the administration’s proposed reorganization of the VA could result in the loss of approximately 80,000 jobs, potentially leaving veterans without the medical and psychological support they desperately need. Katie Weber-Linhart, a U.S. Army veteran, shared her personal fears, stating that for veterans like herself, the cuts could threaten both their physical and mental well-being.
“We’re just trying to bring veterans together right now because we’re all scared,” Weber-Linhart explained. Having served active duty in the Army, she now relies on VA services for essential care. “For those of us already struggling with PTSD, this fear is very real,” she added, underscoring the anxiety many veterans feel about their future care.
The VA reorganization is part of a broader cost-saving initiative under the Department of Government Efficiency, but many veterans view it as a direct threat to their well-being. Veteran advocates and former VA staffers, including Dr. Ginger Schecter, a former VA physician, voiced concerns about the impact these cuts would have on critical services. “I’ve already heard stories of social workers being laid off — and social workers are vital in helping homeless veterans get off the streets,” Schecter stated.
Veterans at the rally expressed outrage at the proposed reductions, with many seeing it as a betrayal of the promises made to them when they enlisted to serve their country. “Our VA care is being cut, VA support is being slashed,” said Army veteran Samuel, shaking his head in disbelief. “It’s unbelievable. It goes against everything we fought for.”
The fear of reduced services and staffing cuts has led to legislative action in Washington. In response to the proposed layoffs, a group of Democratic lawmakers has introduced a bill aimed at forcing the Trump administration to rehire veterans who were dismissed due to the restructuring. The bill’s supporters argue that these positions are critical to ensuring veterans continue to receive the care they deserve.
As the rally in Santa Rosa continued, the message from veterans was clear: they will not back down in their fight to protect their health care and the well-being of future generations of veterans. Their call for unity and action highlights the growing frustration over what many view as an unjust attack on those who served the country.
The battle to preserve the integrity of VA health services is far from over, and veterans are determined to continue their advocacy until their voices are heard and their needs are met.